The year was 1948 – World War II was over; our own Harry Truman was in the White House; a first class stamp cost 3 cents; and, in Kansas City’s Municipal Auditorium, a brand new event was held – the Home Builders Association Home Show. Crowds flocked to see current trends in home improvement and decorating, including the latest technology in clothing care—an automatic washer with attached wringer!
Throughout the years since that first show, special features have ranged from Jones Store fashion shows, Worlds of Fun characters roaming the floor, to a 1987 vision of the SMART HOUSE. Even though that 1987 vision of the future relied on a single wiring system and now we’ve moved on to the internet of things, that vision did include many current features appearing in new homes.
A home built inside Bartle Hall, featuring the latest in construction materials and decorating trends, has been a special attraction for many years. The Home and Lifestyle Show has included community groups such as Wayside Waifs and other pet adoption efforts, an Ask a Builder booth and appearances by well-known architects, interior decorators and home improvement experts.
For 70+ years, the Home Builders Association has offered Kansas City the most current and wide-ranging displays of home improvement, technology, and decorating ideas as well as a fun-filled day with activities for all ages. Decorating trends may come and go, technology and house construction is ever-improving, but home remains the place where memories are made. The members of the Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City are proud to offer local residents a chance to experience the best ways to make their home a place of comfort and beauty.